The Wacky World of Concept Cars in the 2000s
Back in 1998, there was a show that featured a unique creation called the Rocket. This vehicle utilized a Korean V8 engine and had a design that mimicked the look of a pre-war Auto Union grand prix racer. However, there was a sense of caution surrounding the vehicle, as it was noted that these types of cars often fall short when examined up close.
As we transitioned into the 2000s, companies like Sbarro and Rinspeed took concept car innovation to a whole new level. Rinspeed, in particular, introduced some truly outlandish creations such as the Tatooo.com, a retro hot-rod pickup truck with a built-in crane, and the Breathing Observation Bubble, an underwater scooter straight out of a B-grade Hollywood sci-fi film.
Rinspeed continued to push boundaries with the 2004 Splash, a roadster that could transform into a boat and even a hydrofoil, lifting it above the water’s surface. This unique vehicle ran on compressed natural gas, showcasing the company’s commitment to innovation.
Meanwhile, Sbarro was not to be outdone, unveiling a six-wheeled pickup truck in 2007 by adding an electrically driven third axle to a Citroën C-Crosser. This unconventional creation certainly turned heads and left many scratching theirs.
In 2009, Rinspeed wowed audiences once again with the iChange, a shape-shifting vehicle that could adjust its form based on the number of occupants inside. The car was cleverly displayed on an elevated stand to keep its transformative abilities hidden until the right moment.
